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Chantilly Dentist | 7 Ways to Combat Bad Breath

Halitosis, commonly known as bad breath, is commonly
associated with certain foods. Garlic, onion, and cabbage can all cause a foul
odor and taste for several hours after you’ve eaten them. This type of
temporary halitosis is easily solved by avoiding the foods that cause it.
However, in some cases bad breath is a chronic problem that simply changing
your diet won’t solve.

Long-term bad breath is caused by the presence of bacteria
in your mouth. These bacteria are most often found on the back of the tongue
and thrive when your mouth is dry. There are a variety of ways you can help
reduce or eliminate chronic bad breath. Some of these include:

Practice good oral
hygiene.

Brush your teeth after you eat as often as possible and at
least twice daily. Clean between your teeth using dental floss or another
interdental (between teeth) cleaner at least once each day. Food particles
between teeth will break down slowly and cause unpleasant odors and tastes.

Brush your tongue.

Even if you brush and floss your teeth as recommended, the
bacteria causing your bad breath may remain on your tongue. Use a tongue
scraper or toothbrush to gently scrape away any particles of food or bacteria
every time you brush. For best results, place the scraper or brush as far back
as you can manage without gagging. This will generally become easier over time.

Keep well-hydrated.

Dry mouths allow bacteria to thrive. By drinking plenty of
water, you can help prevent the bacteria growth and reduce or stop bad breath.

Avoid bad breath
triggers.

Onions, garlic, cabbage, coffee, and tobacco products are
all known to cause bad breath.

Crunchy fruits and vegetables, yogurt, and foods rich in
vitamins C and D all work to prevent the growth of bacteria, keep your mouth
cleaner, and increase saliva flow.

See your dentist.

Follow your regular schedule of dental hygiene appointments
and exams. If you have tried the tips above without improvement, make an
appointment for an exam to see if there may be an underlying condition that
requires treatment. Treat any oral illnesses, such as decayed teeth, periodontal
(gum) disease, or infection.

For more information about the potential causes and treatments for halitosis, contact our office.

Dentist in Chantilly | Connected Health – Gum Disease and Alzheimer’s

Your gum health may have an impact on your cognitive
function. A recent study found a correlation between gum disease and increased
cognitive decline for people living with early stages of Alzheimer’s disease.
While more studies are needed to make a definitive connection, the study is important
in keeping the conversation going about oral health and its impact on your
entire body.

Details of the Study

The study was administered by King’s College London and the
University of Southampton. It observed 59 patients with early stages of
Alzheimer’s. Blood tests were utilized to examine inflammatory markers present
in the bloodstream, while patients’ dental health was examined by dental
hygienists.

What it Found

The study found that patients with gum disease experienced
cognitive decline at a rate 6 times faster than those without gum disease. The
study suggested that the body’s reaction to inflammation may be responsible for
causing the rapid decrease in brain function.

Importance of Healthy Gums

Previous studies have determined that gum disease can
increase your risk of developing complications such as heart disease and
stroke. Maintaining healthy gums is essential to staying healthy overall. You
can keep your gums healthy by following good daily oral hygiene habits. This
includes brushing twice each day for two minutes, as well as flossing
regularly.

For those living with Alzheimer’s disease, it is imperative
that they maintain their oral health. If you are a caregiver of someone with
the disease, make sure they are keeping up with their daily oral hygiene
routine, as well as visiting our office for regular examinations. Keeping your
gums healthy may be one key to keeping your body and brain healthy too.

For more information about gum health, or to schedule your next visit to our office, please contact us.

Chantilly Dentist | How Candy Threatens Your Child’s Smile

How often does your child eat candy? According to a study
conducted by the USDA Economic Research Service, children under 12 consume an
average of 49 pounds of sugar in one year. While candy is not the sole source
of sugar in a child’s diet, the impacts of sugary candy treats are particularly
harmful to teeth. Here’s what you need to know about candy and how it might be
damaging your child’s smile.

The Impact of Sugar
on Teeth

The real culprit in candy is the high sugar content. Certain
types of bacteria that are present in your mouth can feed on sugar. These
destructive bacteria then create acid that wears away tooth enamel. When enamel
is weakened, your risk of developing decay increases. Your mouth is effective
at neutralizing acids and aiding minerals that strengthen enamel if the amount
of sugars and acids is not excessive. Your mouth can only do so much, which
makes it essential to limit your sugar intake and maintain a regular and
thorough oral hygiene routine.

Watch Out for Sticky,
Sugary Candies

Not all candies are made equal. For a general rule of thumb,
the sticker the candy, the worse it is for your teeth. Sticky candies leave
sugary residue on your teeth long after you are done eating. This gives the
bacteria in your mouth more time to start demineralizing enamel. Watch out for sticky
candies like gum drops and taffy.

Suckers, lollipops, and hard sucking candies are troublesome
because they are in your mouth for an extended period of time. Like sticky
candies, this allows for more time for harmful bacteria to get to work by
weakening your teeth. You can also chip or crack a tooth if you bite too hard.

Other problematic candies include those that are gummy and
coated in sugar. Think of gummy worms or another sour covered, chewy critter.
Not only are they high in sugar content, but they also typically contain
harmful acids that contribute to a loss of enamel.

Steps for Preventing
Decay

You can help your child by limiting their candy and sugar
intake. In some instances, this can be tricky and even out of your control when
your child is at school or a friend’s house. What you can do is instill good
oral hygiene habits in your child. Make sure they are brushing for two minutes
twice each day. You can make brushing fun. Sing a song together for the two
minutes, and allow them to choose a fun toothbrush and toothpaste flavor.

Candy is a fun treat. You don’t have to take it away from
your child altogether, but limit their exposure to such treats and educate them
about the impacts candy can have on their teeth. When left untreated, decay can
spread leading to pain and infection. Maintaining a schedule of regular visits
to our office is essential. More than just a cleaning, we will provide a
thorough examination to check for decay.

20151 Dentist | New Year’s Resolution: A Healthier Smile

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The new year is a time when many consider making positive changes in their lives. Common goals include wanting to lose weight, exercise more, or quit a bad habit. What about vowing to improve your oral health this year? Here’s a few easy changes you can make that will lead to a happier, healthier smile in 2019.

Timing is Everything

Are you a fast brusher? A couple of passes over your teeth is not going to cut it in terms of keeping your teeth strong and clean. Here’s our suggestion for a new year’s resolution: brush for two minutes, twice a day. Start off the new year by trying to brush for the full time. Don’t brush hard because vigorous, fast brushing can lead to lasting gum damage.

Drink Water, Lots of Water

Replace sugary drinks with water this year. Your teeth will benefit from water, as it helps to clean off some of the excess sugar and acids left from food and drinks. Water also assists in saliva production, which is essential for maintaining your teeth’s enamel. Drinking water can also fit into a resolution to lose weight and achieve a healthier lifestyle. Make sure it’s part of your resolution too!

Come See Us

The new year is a good time to schedule your next visit to our office. Keeping up with regular visits helps us to give your teeth a thorough cleaning and examination. Never wait until you think something is wrong with your teeth. Make 2019 the year you keep up with your dental work.

Floss

According to a study by the American Dental Association, only 40% of Americans are flossing daily. Flossing should be a part of your daily oral hygiene routine. We recommend changing your ways in the new year if you are one of the 60% of Americans avoiding dental floss. Flossing is essential for helping limit your decay and for maintaining healthy gums.

With the start of the new year, make a vow to look after your teeth. A few simple changes in your old habits will do a world of good for your teeth in 2019. Allow your good habits to rub off on others this year.

Dentist in Chantilly | Why Are My Teeth Sensitive?

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What makes teeth sensitive?

If the idea of biting into an ice cream sandwich makes you cringe, you may be one of the millions of people who suffer from sensitive teeth. This is often caused by movement of fluid in the dentin – the soft inner tissue beneath the enamel of your tooth. This motion irritates the tooth nerve, creating a tingling sensation and sometimes pain.

Another common cause of tooth sensitivity occurs when the tiny tubes of fluid in the dentin become exposed. This can happen due to tooth wear, receding gums, or damage to the tooth. When this occurs, pain is triggered by eating or drinking foods that are hot or cold, sweet or acidic, and even through contact or exposure to air.

Whitening and orthodontic treatment may cause temporary teeth sensitivity. In most cases, this type will disappear within a week or two. In severe cases of sensitivity, the tooth nerve itself may be exposed, causing severe pain and irritation and requiring immediate treatment.

What can you do about sensitivity?

If you are suffering from sensitivity in your teeth, tell your hygienist or dentist at your next dental visit. They may need to screen for more serious underlying causes that could need treatment. They will also be able to recommend your best method of managing your discomfort.

Is sensitivity preventable?

Some forms of sensitivity are preventable. Avoid using hard-bristled toothbrushes and do not brush aggressively. This can cause higher levels of wear that lead to sensitivity. If you participate in sports, wear a mouthguard to protect your teeth from trauma. Chipped and cracked teeth often become sensitive.

Once serious underlying issues have been ruled out, you can help to manage mildly sensitive teeth with special toothpastes that are designed to decrease your sensitivity. If these do not provide sufficient relief, ask whether a prescription product may be needed.

Chantilly Dentist | Self-Care: A Woman’s Priority

Dentist in Chantilly

When you travel by plane, your flight attendant will advise that in the rare case of an emergency, you must first put on your air mask before attempting to help those around you. When this is not followed, the results can be catastrophic, both for you and for those you might otherwise have been in a position to assist. While this is crucial information for all, many women particularly require this gentle reminder to prioritize their own needs above those of others.

All too often, we meet women who work tirelessly to fulfill the needs of their families. We see working moms, both at home and in office, who prioritize the health and wellness of their children, spouse and even friends before their own.

We get it: there’s joy and fulfillment in taking care of others. However, it may be time to “put on your oxygen mask” and consider whether you are remembering to care for yourself. Your health, both mental and physical, should be one of your top priorities. This will allow you to have the energy and strength you need to assist with the needs of those around you.

Smile restoration can take years off your appearance, while adding years to your life by improving your health. If you’re looking for a way to jump start your new self-care inclusive way of living, contact us for a cosmetic consultation. Your friends and family will love to see you with a vibrant, beautiful, healthy smile. You deserve it.

Dentist in Chantilly VA | How to Beat Bad Breath

Due to the anxiety or embarrassment it can cause, halitosis – or bad breath – can be difficult for many people to face. However, clean-smelling breath may be easier than you think. Try these solutions to overcome halitosis and regain your confidence.

Maintain oral care – Brushing and flossing your teeth is incredibly important to warding off bad breath. Make sure to brush at least twice a day and floss once a day.

Quit smoking – Cigarettes and other tobacco products are a common cause of halitosis, in addition to more serious concerns like oral cancer or gum disease.

Chew sugar free gum – Carry a pack of sugar free gum to chew between meals. It can stimulate saliva flow, mask odors, and prevent tooth decay that might indirectly cause bad breath. Avoid gum that isn’t sugar free, as this can introduce more sugar to your teeth that might contribute to decay.

Mouthwash – While it is only a temporary solution mouthwash can be a quick way to provide relief from halitosis. However, if you feel you need to use mouthwash several times each day, contact our office for an exam to check for the underlying cause of your bad breath.

Clean your tongue – When brushing your teeth, make sure not to ignore your tongue. Brush it gently with a wet toothbrush or use a tongue scraper with care. This helps remove bacteria and food particles that can collect on your tongue and cause bad breath.

Dental visits – Tooth decay, gum disease, and many other dental health issues can be the source of halitosis. By maintaining your recommended schedule of cleanings and examinations, we can work with you to treat any underlying causes of bad breath and ensure your optimal oral health.

Chantilly, VA Dentist | The Dangers of Grinding

Teeth grinding, known as bruxism, is a habit many get into without even realizing it. Grinding your teeth can be damaging for several reasons. If you or your child have been struggling with teeth grinding, make an appointment to see us. We will assess the damage to the teeth, as well as assist you in addressing solutions. Here’s what you need to know about teeth grinding.

Why Do We Grind Our Teeth?

Teeth grinding does not have a single cause. Instead, it can occur for several different reasons. Stress and anxiety, an improper bite, and sleep disorders are all potential causes. If your teeth are not aligned properly, they can rub against each other while you bite or chew. Many people grind their teeth without even realizing what they are doing.

The Journal of the American Dental Association found that smoking and alcohol result in an increase in teeth grinding. In fact, smokers and people who drink alcohol were found to be twice as likely to experience bruxism as those who do not have these behaviors.

What Grinding Does Your Teeth

Grinding wears down your teeth causing damage, increased sensitivity, and even loosening teeth. Teeth are like bones. They can crack or fracture, and grinding has been known to cause both issues. Your teeth can also be flattened from constantly rubbing against one another. Grinding not only damages your teeth, but it leaves you more susceptible to other complications in the future, as well. Beyond your teeth, grinding can lead to jaw pain and headaches. If you wake up with a sore, tired jaw on frequent occasions, this could be a sign that you grind or clench your teeth throughout the night.

What We Can Do

If grinding is an issue for you, make an appointment to see us. First, we will assess the extent of the damage that may have already occurred due to grinding. We will then work with you to identify a solution that will keep your teeth strong and healthy. In some cases, we may recommend wearing a mouth guard at night to prevent your teeth from pressing against one another. Though it can be challenging, if your grinding is caused by stress, the top priority will be to find ways to reduce stress and anxiety. Stress is a more common cause for adults than children. The primary cause of grinding in children is improper alignment.

If grinding your teeth has become an issue, please do not wait until it leads to sensitivity and pain. Schedule an appointment to see us for an evaluation and treatment plan. Our professional dental team will work with you to address the cause of your grinding, and determine a solution that will protect your teeth from any further damage.

20151 Dentist | Common Brushing Mistakes

Dentist in Chantilly

Brushing your teeth is the cornerstone of your oral health care – but is there room for improvement? Use our guide to determine if you’ve fallen into these common brushing habit mistakes, so you can keep your smile healthy and bright.

Not brushing long enough – The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends brushing your teeth for two full minutes at least twice daily. Studies show that most Americans fall short. To ensure you are brushing the full 2 minutes, try using an electric toothbrush with a built-in timer, a clock, or the stopwatch on your smartphone. There are even podcasts designed to act as both a timer and entertainment while you brush.

Improper technique – Aim your brush toward your gums at a 45-degree angle when brushing the fronts and backs of your teeth, and don’t forget the chewing surfaces. Avoid using too much pressure when you brush, as this can cause wear that damages the enamel.

Using an old brush – The ADA recommends replacing your toothbrush (or brush head, if that part is replaceable) every three to four months – sooner if the bristles begin to fray. A toothbrush kept in service too long will become less effective over time due to wear. Moreover, the bristles on an older toothbrush can harbor harmful bacteria.

When to brush, or not brush – Whenever possible, it is best to brush after eating meals or snacks. When you can’t, rinse with water or chew sugarless gum to help remove food particles and neutralize acids. When eating or drinking sugary or acidic items, rinse your mouth and wait 30 minutes to ensure the sugars and acids are washed away by saliva before you brush.

Ignoring your tongue – Use your toothbrush or a tongue cleaner to carefully clean your tongue each time you brush your teeth. This helps clear bacteria and prevent bad breath.

Improper brushing habits can contribute to tooth decay, bad breath, and other oral health issues. Contact us for more information on home care or to schedule your next cleaning.

Chantilly, VA Dentist | Tobacco and Your Teeth

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Chewing and smoking tobacco are known to cause severe health problems, particularly in the lungs. But the risks to your mouth and teeth can be just as extensive and alarming. If you use tobacco, stop. Here’s what tobacco can do to your oral health.

Chewing Tobacco

According to the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD), tobacco chewers increase their risk of developing gum and cheek cancers by 50 times. Tobacco dissolves the gums which leads to sensitivity from exposed roots. This also makes for an ideal location for bacteria to grow, leading to decay. If you are chewing tobacco, stop, and ask our experienced oral health team about what you can do to keep your mouth healthy.

Smoking

According to a report by the AGD, smoking one pack a day can lead to the loss of two teeth each decade of your life. Smoking increases your odds of losing teeth. Cigarettes and cigars are both damaging to your oral health. Smoking can cause staining as well, leading to an unattractive smile.

Oral Cancer

Oral cancer can develop in several places in your mouth including on your tongue, lips, mouth floor, and gums. Those over 50, are at an increased risk of developing oral cancer, as are men. However, Oral cancer has been on the rise, especially for people under 30 according to the AGD. Schedule an appointment with us to receive a thorough oral health examination, and ask us about an oral cancer screening, particularly if you are a tobacco user. Oral cancer screenings are often very quick as our dentist checks your mouth, teeth, and cheeks for signs of irregularities. If caught early, oral cancer can be treated.

If you are a tobacco user, we strongly advise you to quit. You can work with our professional dental team as well as your doctor to overcome tobacco use. Everyone should be receiving regular oral health examinations, but if you are a tobacco user, you need to be especially vigilant in doing so. Schedule a visit to our office so that we can work with you to identify any potential issues.

For more tips on keeping your mouth healthy or to schedule your next visit to our office, please contact us.

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Very happy with Drs Babbington. Appointments are always on time, there is never pressure to have additional (unnecessary) procedures. Cleanings and check-ups are always thorough. I highly recommend this dental practice.

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Dentist Near Me Halitosis, commonly known as bad breath, is commonly associated with certain foods. Garlic, onion, and cabbage can all cause a foul odor and taste for several hours after you’ve eaten them. This type of temporary halitosis is easily solved by avoiding the foods that cause it. However, in some cases bad breath […]

Dentist Near Me Discomfort and pain in your jaw, clicking while you talk or chew, and swelling on the sides of your face can be caused by Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD). TMD can make talking and eating both painful and uncomfortable. Our team understands how TMD can make your day a challenge. We’ve compiled a […]